Oliver Oakes Resigns as Alpine F1 Team Principal Amid...read more

Oliver Oakes Resigns as Alpine F1 Team Principal Amid Surprised I…read more

In a surprising development, Oliver Oakes has stepped down as Team Principal of the Alpine F1 Team, less than a year after his appointment. Oakes, who took over the role in July 2024, becomes the fifth team principal to depart the Enstone-based outfit since 2020, highlighting ongoing instability within the team.

The resignation comes amid reported internal disagreements over the future of rookie driver Jack Doohan. Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore, who has been exerting significant influence over team decisions, is said to have advocated for replacing Doohan with reserve driver Franco Colapinto. Oakes, favoring continuity with Doohan, reportedly found himself at odds with Briatore’s vision, leading to his departure.

Alpine’s performance this season has been underwhelming, with the team currently sitting ninth in the Constructors’ Championship. Veteran driver Pierre Gasly has secured all of the team’s points, while Doohan has struggled to make an impact, his best finish being 13th.

In the wake of Oakes’ resignation, Briatore will assume the responsibilities of Team Principal. This marks a significant return to a leadership role in Formula 1 for Briatore, who previously managed the team during its Benetton and Renault eras. His return is not without controversy, given his past involvement in the 2008 “Crashgate” scandal, which led to a lifetime ban from the sport—a ban that was later overturned.

The team’s internal dynamics and performance issues have drawn criticism, with some comparing Alpine’s frequent managerial changes to the instability seen in football clubs like Watford. As the team prepares for the upcoming Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, all eyes will be on Alpine to see how these leadership changes impact their trajectory.